williamjones

Declaration of Independents

After three decades in insurance, Scott West—a native Texan, agency owner and cattle rancher—feels strongly that insurance companies serving the independent channel should communicate their goals more effectively with the agency force.

The Web They Weave

Roper DeGarmo ran his Kansas City-based agency from China for the past two years, returning home last fall. Over this long duration, his business didn’t suffer at all; in fact, not a single client was even aware he was away the whole time. How did the own

Point/Counterpoint

Is it the end of an era for the local insurance agent? A McKinsey consultant and the Big “I” president debate the issue.

Fault Lines

Is it your fault? The main tort claim against an agency or agent involves some form of negligence. In order for a claimant to “win” a negligence case against you or your agency, he must prove several elements: duty, breach, causation, legal causation (pro

Standards Fare

The idea of expanding the fiduciary standard is gaining momentum. A draft proposal being considered by a Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) advisory group calls for the agency to raise investment advice standards for brokers, based on the law that c

Follow the Leaders

According to the 2013 Best Practices Study conducted by the Big “I” and Reagan Consulting, top agency priorities for software and IT investments in the coming year include internet marketing/social media and agency management systems.

Big “I” Legislative Team Sets Agenda

The second session of the 113th Congress promises another packed legislative agenda with issues top of mind for the independent agency system.

Death of a Salesman?

Three sales gurus track the rapid evolution of the sales process—and what it means for independent agents.

Agency Profile: Zap the Gap

Overcoming generation gaps is among the rewarding results of a rebranding initiative at this family-owned independent agency northeast of Pittsburgh.

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